Formal military honors at Academy Park ceremony

by jmaloni

Sat, Nov 10th 2012 03:30 pm

Viewing 1 of 2

This
past October, during Lewiston's commemoration of the Battle of
Queenston Heights, the New York State Honor Guard, assisted by
American Legion Post 873 Newfane, and "Bugles Across America,"
provided formal military honors for eight local deceased veterans.

The
Oct. 13 ceremonies, coordinated by Norm Machelor and the Battle of
Queenston committee, followed protocols established by Congress,
which provide for an Honor Guard for all veterans of the armed forces
at their funerals. The ceremony includes the playing of taps, the
folding and presentation of the U.S. flag to next of kin, and a rifle
salute.

The
eight veterans so honored at the ceremonies at the Veterans Memorial
in Academy Park in Lewiston, included: Capt. Willard Hauth Jr., U.S.
Army, World War II; Capt. Richard Machelor, U.S. Army, World War II;
Pfc. Harry C. Matheny, U.S. Army, World War II; Staff Sgt. Marvin W.
Simonson, U.S. Army, World War II; Sgt. Lawrence J. Desemone, U.S.
Navy, World War II; Staff Sgt. Joseph C. DelGrosso, U.S. Army, World
War II; Capt. Andrew A. Murphy, U.S. Army, World War II; and Cpl.
Stephan R. Kovacs Sr., U.S. Army, World War II.

Members
of the Honor Guard were assisted by Newfane American Legion Post 873,
which provided five professionally uniformed veterans led by Post
Commander Paul Leader for the three-volley rifle salute. Post members
included Steve Hiller, Carol Matthews, Ricci Holfer and Dave Patton.
Joining the group for the playing of taps was Karl R. Miller of
"Bugles Across America."